Cost of Living in Braidwood, IL
Population 6,175 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Braidwood offers a notably favorable income-to-housing ratio for its region. The typical home — $206,000 — costs less than 2.5 times median household income of $83,365, a threshold many coastal markets passed a decade ago.
Braidwood sits roughly 20 miles south of Joliet — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 17% lower than Joliet's $249,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Braidwood
The median home value in Braidwood is $205,900 — 32% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,089/month, 17% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $83,365/year is 12% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.2%, below the national average of 4.8%. Illinois's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Braidwood has a cost of living index of 74 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 26% less expensive.
Braidwood has limited residential data
Detailed housing and income data is limited for this location. Here are the nearest cities with full cost of living data:
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Braidwood, IL?
Braidwood has a cost index of 74 (100 = national average). It is 26% below the national average.
What is average rent in Braidwood, IL?
The median gross rent in Braidwood is $1,089 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Braidwood?
The median home value in Braidwood is $205,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Braidwood?
The median household income in Braidwood is $83,365 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Braidwood, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Braidwood is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Braidwood, IL affordable?
Yes, Braidwood is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 74 — about 26% below the US national average of 100.
Braidwood at a Glance
- Population
- 6,175
- Median Income
- $83,365
- Home Value
- $205,900
- Median Rent
- $1,089/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.2%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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